Story Archive

Experts: Philippines, US should revisit treaty to include China’s ‘gray-zone’ tactics

The definition of “an armed external attack” in the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty needs to be made more clear, observers say.

20 years after his disappearance, no justice for Thai human rights lawyer’s family

When he disappeared, Somchai Neelapaijit was working on a case alleging that police tortured Muslim suspects in the Deep South.

With prayers, Muslims mark the beginning of Ramadan

The holiday begins as the world copes with ongoing violence against Palestinians in Gaza.

Indonesia vastly underreports methane emissions from coal, report says

This could have implications for country’s standing in international efforts to cut methane emissions 30% by 2030.

US ‘all in’ on Philippine chip sector as China tensions ramp up

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo also announced $1 billion in new American investment for the Philippines.

Rebels killed, residents displaced in southern Philippines ahead of Ramadan

Two suspected BIFF militants were killed in a gunfight in Maguindanao del Sur, Philippine military says.

Uyghur migrants see no release after a decade in Thai cells

Rights groups call on the Thai government to defy China’s pressure and free them.

Renewal of close US ties good for regional security, Micronesian leaders say

U.S. President Joe Biden signed a government funding bill that includes $7.1 billion for three Pacific island allies.

In Southeast Asia, protecting the environment is its own hazard

Climate change could devastate the region, but that hasn’t stopped governments from targeting young activists.

Hike in food prices dampens Ramadan spirit in Bangladesh

Government is not monitoring hoarding or punishing unscrupulous businessmen who are profiting during the Muslim holy month, consumer association says.

Town in Thailand’s Deep South celebrates old blend of cultures

Annual festival to the goddess of mercy draws thousands of tourists to Pattani from across the nation and nearby Malaysia.

Bougainville says PNG police appointment in breach of peace agreement

US offers Indonesia $2.49M grant for capital city move

Washington’s first effort to support the relocation from Jakarta is seen as effort to challenge Beijing.

Malaysian PM defends China again, says hindering its ascent will raise tensions

Anwar Ibrahim claps back at U.S. criticism of Malaysia’s ties with Beijing, saying he doesn’t have “China-phobia.”

Beijing condemns Manila’s Maritime Zones Act

Chinese spokesperson says the bill “severely violates China’s territorial sovereignty in the South China Sea.”